Abstract

A review on the use of photonic structures enabling a better absorption of solar radiation within solar cells is proposed. Specific geometric configurations, such as folded solar cells or fiber-based architectures, are shown to be promising solutions to reach better light absorption. Electromagnetic optimization of thin-film solar cells and the use of angular thin-film filters, proposed by several research groups, also provide solutions to better concentrate solar radiation within the active layers of solar cells. Finally, results on “photonized” solar cells comprising gratings or more advanced photonic components, such as photonic crystals or plasmonic structures, and their effects on light–matter interaction in solar cells are highlighted.

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